Jun 22.21
Why Inclusive Experiences Require Radical Thinking
As XDA continues to educate ourselves on allyship, we not only take a look at our individual behaviors and company practices but are re-evaluating industry principles. The experiential industry has a responsibility to explore and promote inclusive guidelines that penetrate misconceptions. As a community, we will progress when we find reward in positive outcomes from uncomfortable discussion. Breaking molds requires bold ideas, conviction, and education. If we take our audiences along for the ride, then we enjoy the journey, as much as the destination. Let’s take a look at how we break these molds together.
PERSONA OVER IDENTITY
What do we know about one other vs what we should know about one other? We’ve been taught to ask superficial questions as ice breakers. What if we could break the ice ahead of time and better align on how we could positively affect each other’s goals, visions, and desires? Let’s explore identification tactics:
Radical approach: Networking Algorithms. If we learned anything from being virtual, it’s that blank profiles won’t cut it. Let’s flip algorithms upside down and pair strengths with weakness. Then our focus becomes collaborative ideation and solution-oriented discussion. Tag profiles with purpose not commonality.
Radical approach: Badges. What if your badge was replaced with a persona playlist? Which anthems say the most about you? Let’s swap out company titles with hobbies, moods, pronouns – let your vibe tell your story.
UNITY OVER UNIFORMITY
We invite you to envision with us future experiences that celebrate individuals rather than uniformity. Let’s look at how we can make that happen.
Radical approach: Dress Codes. Event dress codes are so pre-pandemic! For your next event, identify your dress code as: INDIVIDUALITY. Letting people express themselves encourages authenticity all around.
Radical approach: Pay it forward. Just as you document that gorgeously plated meal on IG, sharing your interests with your colleague, coworker, or industry neighbor promotes alternative perspectives. Share your favorite or least favorite experience with your neighbor and start a discussion!
The beauty we see in each other’s many layers allows for genuine connection through values and vision rather than opportunism.
As our journey down a radical inclusive path continues, we’ll be sharing various execution styles throughout the year! Stay tuned!
To learn how The XD Agency can develop award-winning – and more importantly, results-driven – experience design for your brand, email us at hello@xdagency.com.
